Filing your KRA P9 returns doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right steps, you can complete the process quickly and avoid penalties. If you’ve been employed in Kenya, your employer issues a P9 form detailing your annual income, tax deductions, and other financial details. This document is essential when submitting your tax returns on iTax.

Understanding how to use it ensures compliance with KRA regulations and keeps you in good standing. Read on for a simple, step-by-step guide.

What is a P9 Form?

A P9 form is a summary of your earnings and taxes deducted within a financial year. Employers provide this form to employees before the filing deadline. It includes:

• Gross salary
• Taxable benefits
• PAYE (Pay As You Earn) deductions
• Allowances and reliefs
• Pension contributions

You must use this form to file your annual tax returns on iTax. Without it, the process becomes complicated, increasing the risk of errors.

Preparing to File P9 Returns

Before logging into iTax, gather these essentials:

1. P9 Form – Get it from your employer.
2. KRA PIN – Ensure you have your PIN number.
3. iTax Account Credentials – Confirm access to your iTax profile.
4. Relief Documentation – If you claim reliefs like insurance or mortgage interest, have supporting documents.

Having everything ready saves time and reduces filing errors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing P9 Returns on iTax

1. Log in to iTax

Go to iTax. Enter your KRA PIN and password, then complete the security check to access your account.

2. Select ‘Returns’

Click on ‘Returns’ in the top menu, then choose ‘File Return’. Select ‘Income Tax – Resident Individual’ from the list.

3. Download the Tax Return Form

A download link appears. Get the Excel sheet, open it, and enable editing and macros.

4. Fill in Personal Details

Enter your KRA PIN, name, and return period (e.g., 01/01/2024 – 31/12/2024).

5. Input P9 Form Details

Use your P9 form to fill in:

• Gross salary
• Allowances
• PAYE deducted
• Tax reliefs

Ensure accuracy, as incorrect details can lead to penalties.

6. Validate and Upload

Once completed, click ‘Validate’. If no errors appear, save the file and return to iTax. Click ‘Upload’, attach the saved file, and submit.

7. Download the Acknowledgment Receipt

After submission, download the receipt for your records. This proves compliance and helps in case of future audits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using an outdated return form – Always download the latest version from iTax.
• Entering incorrect details – Double-check figures before submission.
• Ignoring tax reliefs – Claiming available reliefs reduces tax liability.
• Missing the deadline – The deadline is June 30th. Late filing attracts penalties.

Avoid these mistakes to ensure a smooth tax filing process.

What If You Have No Taxable Income?

If you earned no income, you must still file a Nil Return to stay compliant. Log in to iTax, select ‘Nil Return’, confirm your details, and submit. The process takes only a few minutes.

Need Help Filing Your KRA Returns?

Filing taxes can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Boochy Cyber offers professional tax filing services to ensure accuracy and compliance. Whether you need help with a standard return or a Nil Return, our team simplifies the process.